Merembra Homestead

Item details


Name of item:	Merembra Homestead
Other name/s:	John's Farm, Barley Mow Inn
Type of item:	Built
Group/Collection:	Residential buildings (private)
Category:	Homestead building
Location:	Lat: -33.4505685458 Long: 149.5888132290
Primary address:	218 Gormans Hill Road, Bathurst, NSW 2795
Local govt. area:	Bathurst Regional
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Bathurst

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Section Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	141		DP	771779

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
218 Gormans Hill Road	Bathurst	Bathurst Regional			Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
	Private

Statement of significance:


	Merembra homestead is an archetypal medium sized Victorian farmhouse in an unspoiled rural setting which contributes significantly to its rural surroundings. In a highly visible position on the original Bathurst Road. Its original owners and family were foundation members of the Bathurst Pastoral society with strong connections to those who were forming the infrastructure of the district. Connected to a number of important persons in Bathurst's hstory: Thomas Kite, John Bayliss, John Vane and John McPhillamy and families.The combination of its intactness and aesthetics together with a rich history makes it rare. (B. Hickson 2006)
	Date significance updated: 01 Sep 06
	Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description


Designer/Maker:	Unknown
Builder/Maker:	Unknown
Construction years:	1863-1864
Physical description:	Merembra is a simple Victorian Georgian farm homestead. Stone foundations, triple brick construction under a hipped iron roof with gabled vents to front. Bullnosed verandah on three sides supported by flat timber posts with simple arch profile at front and small 'stranger's' rooms at either end. Three brick chimneys on main roof and one over kitchen wing. A pair of small gabled roof vents to main elevation. Two approximately centrally placed front doors flanked by shuttered sash windows to back and front. The building has good curtilage being located towards the front of 5 acres and retaining further 11 acres to the side. A cellar is below the house which is accessed from the rear. A large stone pine (Pinus pinea) tree dominates its front garden and lawn setting (Stuart Read, pers.comm.).
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	Physical condition is fair.
	Date condition updated:29 Feb 00
Modifications and dates:	Building is substantially intact and in original condition. 1920s - brick paved verandah has been covered with cement screed. 1957 - bath and indoor toilet installed by tenant. 1987/99 - verandah at rear and rear wing re-roofed in style of original. Orchard and specimen trees are planted.


Current use:	Under restoration
Former use:	Farm house, inn, residence, workshop

History

Historical notes:

Aboriginal people and colonisation.
The Bathurst region has been home to the Wiradjuri people for over 40,000 years. They are the people of the three rivers -The Wambool (Macquarie), the Calare (Lachlan) and the Murrumbidgee. The Bathurst Wiradjuri are the most easterly grouping of the Wiradjuri nation (B.Hickson).

Aboriginal occupation of the Blue Mountains area dates back at least 12,000 years and appears to have intensified some 3000-4000 years ago. In pre-colonial times the area now known as Bathurst was inhabited by Aboriginal people of the Wiradjuri linguistic group. The clan associated with Bathurst occupied on a seasonal basis most of the Macquarie River area. They moved regularly in small groups but prefered the open land and used the waterways for a variety of food. There are numerous river flats where debris from recurrent camps accumulated over a long period. European settlement in this region after the first documented white expedition west of the Blue Mountains in 1813 was tentative because of apprehensions about resistance from Aboriginal people. There was some contact, witnessed by sporadic hostility and by the quantity of surviving artefacts manufactured by the Aborigines from European glass. By 1840 there was widespread dislocation of Aboriginal culture, aggravated after 1850 by the goldrush to the region (HO and DUAP, 1996, 88).

Prior to European settlement in Australia, the Wiradjuri Aboriginal group lived in the upper Macquarie Valley.

Bathurst:
Bathurst is Australia's oldest inland township. It was proclaimed a town in 1815 with the discovery of gold.

Governor Macquarie chose the site of the future town of Bathurst on 7 May 1815 during his tour over the Blue Mountains, on the road already completed by convict labour supervised by William Cox. Macquarie marked out the boundaries near the depot established by surveyor George Evans and reserved a site for a government house and domain. Reluctant to open the rich Bathurst Plains to a large settlement, Macquarie authorised few grants there initially, one of the first being 1000 acres to William Lawson, one of the three European explorers who crossed the mountains in 1813. The road-maker William Cox was another early grantee but later had to move his establishment to Kelso on the non-government side of the Macquarie River (GAO, 2005, 8).

Bathurst was named after Lord Bathurst, Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies (Barker 1992:25).

A modest release of land in February 1818 occurred when ten men were chosen to take up 50 acre farms and 2 acre town allotments across the river from the government buildings. When corruption by government supervisor Richard Lewis and acting Commandant William Cox caused their dismissal, they were replaced by Lieutenant William Lawson who became Commandant of the settlement in 1818 (ibid, 8).

Macquarie continued to restrict Bathurst settlement and reserved all land on the south side of the Macquarie River for government buildings and stock, a situation that prevailed until 1826. In December 1819 Bathurst had a population of only 120 people in 30 houses, two thirds being in the township of Kelso on the eastern side of the river and the remainder scattered on rural landholdings nearby. The official report in 1820 numbered Bathurst settlers at 114, including only 14 women and 15 children. The government buildings comprised a brick house for the commandant, brick barracks for the military detachment and houses for the stock keeper, and log houses for the 50 convicts who worked the government farm. Never successful, the government farm was closed by Governor Darling in 1828 (ibid, 8).

Governor Darling, arriving in Sydney in 1825, promptly commenced a review of colonial administration and subsequently introduced vigorous reforms. On advice from Viscount Goderich, Darling divided colonial expenditure into two parts: one to cover civil administration, funded by New South Wales; the other for the convict system, funded by Britain (ibid, 10).

By this time, J.McBrien and Robert Hoddle had surveyed the existing grants in the vicinity. Surveyor James Bym Richards began work on the south side of the river in 1826. But the town was apparently designed by Thomas Mitchell in 1830 and did not open until late 1833 after Richards had completed the layout of the streets with their two-road allotments. The first sales were held in 1831 before the survey was complete (ibid, 10).

In 1832 the new Governor, Major General Sir Richard Bourke, visited Bathurst in October. He instructed the Surveyor General Major Thomas L. Mitchell to make arrangements for 'opening the town of Bathurst without delay' and he in turn instructed the Assistant Surveyor at Bathurst J.B. Richards to lay out the blocks and streets. This was done in September 1833. It is believed that Major Mitchell named the streets, with George Street being named after King George III.

The very architecture of the city (of Bathurst) is a gallery in itself,, Georgian Colonial, Victorian and Edwardian buildings feature in the panoply of architecture, that was classified by the National Trust (of Australia (NSW)) in the 1970s. Bathust can lay claim to some of the oldest buildings in the colony; first Church of England over the Blue Mountains, once part of the Bishopric of Calcutta, Holy Trinity...on the hill at Kelso, St. Steven's Presbyterian, while not the original church, is still one of the oldest Presbyterian churches in the colony, Old Government Cottage, near the Macquarie River is part of the original government enclave. Not only is it the first inland European settlement, but it has museum collections of national significance... (Friend, 2021).

Macquarie the commissioned William Cox to construct a road over the Blue Mountains in 1815. Cox's road followed the route established by the two teams of explorers. This road was completed in 1815 The constructed road followed the South or Left bank of the Macquarie River until it reached Gorman's Hill.

The final stretch of the road to Gorman's Hill travelled through Queen Charlottes Vale, between Vale Creek and the Macquarie river. The Vale Road, following the Vale Creek was also an early entrance road into Bathurst and another alternative in flooding seasons. This placed Merembra or Johns Farm in a strategic location in the development of Bathurst.

In 1830 Lot 14, Parish of Bathurst, was promised by Governor Sir Ralph Darling to a young man, John Bayliss, who was born in NSW in1808. The Bayliss family were nail-makers from Staffordshire. John's father, Joseph Bayliss, joined the 102nd Regiment of Foot, arrived in Port Jackson, NSW in June 1790 .

In January 1831 John Bayliss aged 22, took possession of the land at Lot 14 Parish of Bathurst and the promised Crown Grant of 108 acres was formalised in 1840. Merembra was then called John's Farm. John lived here for 50 years.
1n 1864 John mortgaged the land and house for a loan of 250 pounds from John McPhillamy, possibly to help pay for the completion of the homestead.

For a time the homestead was known as the Barley Mow Hotel and was licensed in 1867. Co-members of the Amateur Jockey Club could have frequented the tavern as John Bayliss owned and trained horses at the farm, the most successful being a winner of the 1881 Bathurst Silver Bracelet Race.

John Bayliss died in December 1880 with the cause of death given by Dr Bassett being "advanced age", at 72.
In 1815 William McPhillamy, of County Tyrone, Ireland, married Mary Scott They were both tried and sentenced at Ayr in 1816 and each received 7 years transportation. In the 1828 census William is recorded as an overseer to Robert Smith, who was a superintendent for Marsden at Bathurst.

After William died, Mary married Robert Smith who prospered and bought large tracts of land. As he had no children and left his property to all but the eldest of Mary's children when he died in 1851.The youngest child was John Smith McPhillamy (1825 - 1887) who worked for his stepfather as a station manager.

He married Maria Saphia Dargin and in 1881 he bought John's Farm at auction and requested Priscilla Bayliss to convey said land to his eldest son, John McPhillamy Jr. John Mc Phillamy Jr (1850 - 1935) was born at Mt. Tamar. He became the owner of John's Farm in 1881 possibly around the time of his marriage. He and his wife had 5 children between 1884 & 1897. It is possible that they named Johns Farm "Blair Athol' from the 1880's, as such was referred to as the McPhillamy residence prior to the construction of the. current "Blair Athol", in Keppel Street, Bathurst in 1892.

John McPhillamy was on committees of various sporting clubs including the Turf Club, on the Board of Bathurst District Hospital and deeply interested in the AH&P Association. In 1926, when he retired from the legal practice after 40 years he settled Mt. Tamar on John Maxwell McPhillamy, his son. He carried it on for a time before selling it to Mr. Stevenson.

Faith McPhillamy took a special interest in her 3 nephews, as their father, her brother Victor Bayliss, had died young and they were close neighbours. In the1930s she bought Merembra from John McPhillamy, thus returning the homestead into the ownership of the Bayliss family. Roger Bayliss, her nephew ran a dairy farm with the help of a family who were tenants. When she died in1960 Raymond Bayliss, her eldest nephew, inherited Merembra. Raymond was involved with the Bathurst District Historical Society and collated a lot of family & local historical research. In 1987 he gave the house & remaining acreage to his daughter, Diana Jamieson. Her family had no interest in using it so the river flats were subdivided off and sold to Harry Cook, a vegetable grower. The homestead and 16 acres were sold to the Prykes thus ending the 157 year old Bayliss / McPhillamy connection to Lot 14. (B. Hickson 2006).

Private Joseph Baylis, a soldier in the NSW Corps, arrived in Australia on the 'Suprize' on 26 July 1790, part of the second Fleet. He served as a guard on Norfolk Island. By 1803, he had received land grants from Governor King and became farmers near Windsor.

Joseph's wife, Ann Taylor, was convict who arrived in Sydney on the 'Earl Cornwallis' in 1801 In 1806 muster she is shown as pardoned and her employer as J Bayliss. They married in 1810 and reared eight children.

Their first child, Sarah, (1804-1844) later married Thomas Kite on 26 December 1820 in Castlereagh, Church of England. In the early 1820s, William (1805-1883), John (1808-1880) and Jane (b1813) came to Kelso, Bathurst to join and work for their sister and brother-in law Sarah and Thomas Kite. The father , Joseph, and the the children also settled later in Bathurst, probably after his wife died in Windsor of accidental poisoning in December 1826.

John Baylis, applied for and received a land grant of 108 acres, No 14 Parish of Bathurst in 1830. He married Priscilla Golsby in 1832 and became a pioneering farmer, experimenting on lighter soils. There were nine children. 'John's Farm' is where Joseph Baylis is thought to have died in 1855 so there would have been an earlier dwelling on the property.

The present homestead was constructed circa 1864 of triple brick on a stone foundation. It is purported that bush ranger John Vane, a confederate of Ben Hall carted the foundation stones.

John and his son Henry (1844-1934) for a time kept a hotel, the 'Barley Mow' at John's Farm They were active members of the Bathurst Amateur Turf Club.
In 1867 the building was licensed as the Barley Mow Hotel for one year.

John Bayliss died in 1880 and was buried in the family grave at St Matthews' Windsor, with his parents.

In February 1881 the farm was sold to John McPhillamy and the name changed to Merembra. The McPhillamy family did not live at Merembra and at this time it is not known who leased the property.

In the 1930s John's granddaughter Faith Lurline, marries Walter McPhillamy of Orton Park and became the owner of Merembra.

From 1930 to 1987 the property is rented to various people including Horace Shilabeer, Worthingtons, George Ballam (1949-67), and Neville Hanrahan (1967-87)

In 1963/64 Faith Lurline dies childless and leaves Merembra to nephew Raymond Bayliss (descendent of original owner).

In 1987 it was sold at auction to Mary and Neville Pryke and used as a workshop. Orchard and specimen trees are planted.

In 1999 it was purchased by Margaret and Jim Glen. (Glen, 2000)

Built pre 1870 on original grant of Thomas Gorman, one of Evan's original party & Supt. Of the road gang to Bathurst. Private Joesph Baylis, a soldier in the NSW corps, arrived in Australia on the 'Surprise' on 26 July 1790, part of the second fleet. He served as a guard on Norfolk Island. By 1803, he had received land grants from Governer King and became farmers near Windsor. Joesph's wife, Ann Taylor, was convict who arrived in Sydney on the 'Earl Cornwallis' in 1801. In 1806 muster she is shown as pardoned and her employer as J. Bayliss. They married in 1810 and reared eight children. Their first child, Sarah (1804 - 1844) later married Thomas Kite on 26 December 1820 in Castlereagh, Church of England. In the early 1820's, William (1805 - 1883), John (1808 - 1880) and Jane (b1813) came to Kelso, Bathurst to join and work for their sister and brother in law Sarah & Thomas Kite. The father, Joesph, and the children also settled later in Bathurst, probably after his wife died in Windsor of accidental poisoning in December 1826. John Baylis, applied for and received land grant of 108 acres, No. 14 Parish of Bathurst in 1830. He married Priscilla Golsby in 1832 and became a pioneering farmer, experimenting on lighter soils. There were nine children. 'John's Farm' is where Joesph Baylis is thought to have died in 1855 so there would have been an earlier dwelling on the property (LEP).

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)	New South Wales theme	Local theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Gardens-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Changing the environment-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Introduce cultural planting-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Wiradjuri Nation - working for pastoralists-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Aboriginal Culture-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Convict-Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities	Working on private assignment-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Convict-Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities	Demonstrating emancipist's entrepreneurial activities-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Convict-Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities	Creating a gentleman's estate-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Convict-Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities	Demonstrating convicts' experiences and activities-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	Scottish settlers-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	English migrants-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	Irish migrants-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Private farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Cropping-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Attempting to transplant European farming practices to Australian environments-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Ancillary structures fencing-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Ancillary structures - sheds, crop storage-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Marking the transition from pastoralism to agriculture-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Farming wheat and other grains-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Clearing land for farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Innkeeping-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Tourist Industry-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Developing local, regional and national economies-National Theme 3
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of food production-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of passive recreation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of cultural and natural interaction-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes and gardens of domestic accommodation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of urban and rural interaction-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Gardens and landscapes reminiscent of an 'old country'-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes and parklands of distinctive styles-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences	Developing local landmarks-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them.	Opening Up, 1818-39-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them.	Exploring and surveying for the Crown-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Working for pastoralists-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Modifying landscapes to increase productivity-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Agisting and fattening stock for slaughter-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Livestock structures-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Transport-Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another, and systems for the provision of such movements	Coaching Inns along roads-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Transport-Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another, and systems for the provision of such movements	Building and maintaining public roads-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Building settlements, towns and cities-National Theme 4
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Country Homes-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Victorian era residence-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	gentlemen's residences-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Pastoral Homestead-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing for farm and station hands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Accommodating travellers and tourists-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing the prosperous - mansions in town and country-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Country Villa-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing farming families-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing working animals-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Adapted heritage building or structure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Early land grants-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Early farming (sheep grazing)-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Early farming (cropping)-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Early farming (Cattle grazing)-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Demonstrating Governor Macquarie's town and landscape planning-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Changing land uses - from rural to tourist-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Expressing lines of early grant allotments-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Granting Crown lands for private farming-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Sub-division of large estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Administering and alienating Crown lands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Subdivision of rural estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	19th century suburban developments-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	living in the country-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Shaping riverine settlement-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Shaping inland settlements-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Cultural Social and religious life-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Impacts of railways on rural development-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Roadside Villages-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	A quiet Rural District-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Country Villa-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Developing government towns-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Outlying settlements-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Beautifying rural estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Developing the social life of a rural community-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Vernacular hamlets and settlements-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Role of transport in settlement-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Creating landmark structures and places in regional settings-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Private assignment-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working on the land-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working with plants-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Servants quarters-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working with animals-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working in orchards-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working with hand tools and implements-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working on pastoral stations-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working independently on the land-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Local government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	State government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Colonial government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - administration of land-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - facilitating pastoralism-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - facilitating agriculture-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - town and country planning-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - conserving cultural and natural heritage-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Developing cultural institutions and ways of life-National Theme 8
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - Federation period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Adaptation of overseas design for local use-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - Victorian period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - 20th century interwar-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Interior design styles and periods - Victorian-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - Victorian (mid)-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - Victorian Georgian Revival-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Building in response to natural landscape features.-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Country estates - visiting, enjoying-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ways of life 1900-1950-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ways of life 1950-2000-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ways of life 1850-1900-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Living in a bushland setting-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ornamental Garden-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Kitchens and servants-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Living in a rural homestead-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Outdoor relief-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Tourism-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going drinking in bars or clubs-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going to a bar-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Playing cards-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Horse racing-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Visiting heritage places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Gardening-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Activities associated with relaxation and recreation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Horse riding-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going hunting and shooting-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Gathering at landmark places to socialise-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going to the pub-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Leisure-Includes tourism, resorts.
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Community volunteering-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Joining together to study and appreciate philosophy-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Places of informal community gatherings-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Belonging to an historical society or heritage organisation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Developing clubs for social improvement-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	The Merembra Homestead site is associated with initial European exploration and use of Bathurst Plains. It provides and example of colonial settlement policies of the 1830s. A settlement grant was given to family of veteran NSW corps soldier, under Governor Darling, on the basis of promoting settlement of the central west and as a recognition of veteran service. (Fallon et al 2002:70)
SHR Criteria b) [Associative significance]	Merembra Homestead was constructed c1863 and is associated with the Bayliss, Kite and McPhillamy families. It is purported to be associated with the bush ranger John Vane during construction and subsequent raids. (Glen, 2000) (Fallon et al 2002:70)
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	Merembra Homestead is a medium sized Victorian Georgian farm house in a highly visible position overlooking the Macquarie River and set in an unspoilt rural setting. It contributes significantly to its rural surroundings. (Glen, 2000) (Heritage Study 1990) (Fallon et al 2002:70)
SHR Criteria d) [Social significance]	Continued association with early settlement family throughout 160 years of European settlement family throughout 160 years of European use from 1830-1987. Association with significant early settlers and personalities of Bathurst including:- Thomas Kite, John Bayliss and Bayliss family, John Vane, John McPhillamy and family. Representative of successful free settlement of the Central West. Representative of opportunities created for lower middle class colonial settlers who chose to stay in Australia after completing their term of employment rather than return to England. History of the site reflects early settlement control policies of Governor Macquarie of providing small farm grants as rewards for good conduct and service. (Fallon et al 2002:70)
SHR Criteria e) [Research potential]	Merembra Homestead retains much of its original fabric and will provide opportunities to research original bricks, colours, finishes etc. John Bayliss grew experimental crops and was first to experiment with lighter soils. (Glen, 2000). The Merembra Homestead was initially constructed as a rural Inn which is reflected in the planning of the building. The construction techniques are reflective of late Colonial / Early Victorian period, remaining intact and interpretable. The site specific 19th century site specific early water supply system includes a well and a reservoir tank stand which still remains intact. (Fallon et al 2002:70)
SHR Criteria g) [Representativeness]	It represents the archetypal medium sized Victorian farm house. (Heritage Study, 1990)
Integrity/Intactness:	Substantially intact. (Heritage Study, 1990)
Assessment criteria:	Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:

Recommendations

Management Category	Description	Date Updated
Recommended Management	Review a Conservation Management Plan (CMP)	03 Oct 21
Recommended Management	Prepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines
Recommended Management	Carry out interpretation, promotion and/or education

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act	Description	Title	Comments	Action date
CMP-Endorse	Conservation Plan submitted for endorsement	CMP: "Merembra" Homestead, Bathurst ("Johns Farm") (Integrated Design Assoc., Oct 2002)		Jun 27 2003
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Standard Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977: revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A. This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette. Dated this 29th day of October 2025 The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC Minister for Heritage For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below.	Nov 7 2025

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage Listing	Listing Title	Listing Number	Gazette Date	Gazette Number	Gazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register		01397	14 Jul 00	88	6404
Local Environmental Plan		010	12 Dec 97	146	9992

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title
Written	C W Sloman		The History of Bathurst 1815-1915
Oral History	Chris Bayliss - Great Great Grandson of John Bayliss	1999	(not stated)
Written	Hughes, Truman & Ludlow	1990	Heritage Stduy of Bathurst
Written	Integrated Design Associates	2002	Merembra Homestead Conservation Management Plan
Written	J Glen	2000	State Heritage Inventory Form
Written	K Fry		Beyond the Barrier - Class formation in a pastoral society
Written	Raymond V Bayliss	1982	Joseph Bayliss (177001855) Soldier & Pioneer Settler of NSW

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5014203
File number:	H00/00088; H99/00242

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the Database Manager.

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